Health Education Resources

Details

Category: Health Education Resources

“Denial Is Not Just a River in Egypt”

We’ve all heard that before, right? It applies to any age, race, religion, and social class, especially as it applies to health issues like memory loss. The word dementia comes from the Latin for “without mind or reason” as defined by the NIH (National Institutes of Health). There are eight forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s being 60-80% of them: vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, normal pressure hydrocephalus, Huntington’s disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and Alzheimer’s disease (prevention.com). In general, dementia means that our brains aren’t doing what they are supposed to, and of course, age is one contributing factor. 

As a church family we are concerned about everyone at any age. We encourage members and visitors alike to bring concerns to ministry members or leaders. But often, there is a lot of discomfort and even shame about problems that arise that aren’t physically obvious. Mental health conditions are still treated as shameful and mentioned in whispers. Because of this, often the affected person begins denying that anything is different, but they and their close ones notice changes in mood and memory. It is highlighted when the person gets irritated or angry because they know something is happening, but they are too afraid to confront it or they are denying that it is serious. At this point, it becomes a true problem because deniability is key to the person’s self-image and self-esteem. Even if it were a mental health issue, the physical diagnosis of dementia of any kind is not shameful. What is shameful is how we continue to treat dementia and its resulting behavioral changes as things that cannot be openly addressed. African-Americans, especially, have documented historical and contemporary reasons to distrust medical communities: the Tuskegee Study, prenatal/infant mortality, health disparities. One contributing stress factor in dementia is racism. 

Racism significantly drives racial disparities in dementia and Alzheimer’s

disease. Marginalized populations, particularly Black and Hispanic adults,

face a higher burden of cognitive decline due to a combination of chronic

toxic stress, socioeconomic inequalities, and systemic barriers in healthcare.

 Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org)

Given all that we now know about dementia and how it affects the African American population, it might be time for us to acknowledge that the problem is not just the disease but how we view it. There are so many new treatments and drugs emerging everyday (despite the political/civil climate of the country) that our denial and resistance to getting help is more debilitating than the disease itself. 

As for those who try to get their loved ones help with growing frustration, Mathew said in 10:14 that Jesus told the disciples “And if any one [sic] will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town” (Mathew 10:14, RSV). This referred not only to those who rejected the disciples’ teachings but also for them to not hold onto the feelings of rejection. Don’t hold onto those feelings of frustration; keep loving them; keep praying that they will drop the “river of denial.” We will pray with you for the opening when Jesus talks to them through their fear, confusion into acceptance in prayerful submission. That’s when the healing really begins.

Submitted by Min. Dr. Lani Wilson

Details

Category: Health Education Resources

Now more than ever, in a world of chaos, tragedy and trauma, taking on practices that improve our overall well-being are essential. This is especially true for Black men, who statistically have less access to medical and mental health care than any other demographic group in the U.S. We also have the shortest life spans of anyone – surprise, surprise.

In honor of Father’s Day and Men’s Health Month, we have included a list of 14 practical and necessary actions you can take to implement self-care into your lives and/or the men you love.

1. Talk to a therapist.  To be Black in America is to be bombarded with messages designed to make you feel inferior, all because of your skin color. This messaging is contemporary and historical. Getting therapy is the best way to address the trauma, whether it stems from racial discrimination or personal trauma. There are some useful resources to get you started. You can visit alkemehealth.com, therapyforblackmen.org or blackmenheal.org for resources and affordable therapy options. 

2. Go to the doctor. If you haven’t been to the doctor in years, make an appointment and see how you can improve your health. The number one reason many Black men age poorly and die sooner is that they don’t go to the doctor until it’s too late.

3. Exercise regularly. No, you don’t have to train for a marathon. But it would be beneficial for you to regularly engage in physical activities you might find enjoyable, like going jogging, taking dance lessons, or playing basketball. The physical and mental health benefits of exercise are plentiful. You’ll look and feel better.  

4. Practice gratitude. There will always be things to complain about – your job, personal life, finances, or favorite sports team. One of the most revolutionary ways to practice self-care is to adopt an attitude of gratitude. Think of the things you are grateful for daily. You can write them down in a journal at the start of the day or when you lay down at night. Try to recall them during the day, especially when you encounter troubling thoughts or situations. It improves your mood and transforms your outlook on life.

5. Laugh more. Whether it’s rewatching “Coming to America” for the zillionth time or going down memory lane with friends, laughter improves your mood but also stimulates organs like the heart and lungs. Over time, laughter even improves immune function.

There is a reason laughter is called “the best medicine.” It’s an important part of self-care.

 6. Read or listen to books. There is no downside to gaining knowledge, expanding your vocabulary, or improving your mood. That’s what you get from reading or listening to books.

 7. Spend time with the people you love. Think a movie night with the family, date night with the spouse, or watching sports with the boys. Studies like this one show that people who focus on relationships tend to be happier.   

 8. Discover your “Why.” What are you meant to do in life? Journal to discover the hobbies and activities you most enjoy doing. Engage in a spiritual practice to draw a deeper meaning from life. Your passion will lead you right into your purpose.   

9. Forgive and let go. Among other benefits, forgiving people and letting go of grudges lowers stress and blood pressure and improves heart and mental health.  

10. Disconnect from social media for a bit. It doesn’t have to be anything drastic but try fasting for a few days from Facebook and Instagram to engage in real-life activities you enjoy.

11. Give. Whether you’re giving time or that daily coffee money, give to someone or some charity in need. It could be something simple, like paying for someone’s drive-thru order or volunteering to mentor youths. Few things feel as good as giving without the expectation of receiving anything in return. Try it.  

12. Tackle what you’ve been putting off. We all have those tasks we’ve been putting off, whether that’s painting the bedroom, taking an online course, or putting together that play set for the kid. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel is all worth it.   

13. Set goals and accomplish them. This one should be self-explanatory. Few things are as fulfilling as setting a goal and meeting it. Doing so makes you feel good and allows you to live your best life.  

14. Have fun. You can take this attitude by losing yourself in an activity you love or by taking on an arduous task or goal. You can make almost anything fun.

Sources: Black Men’s Health, Rutgers University

Details

Category: Health Education Resources

WHAT IS MEMORY SUNDAY?

Memory Sunday is a faith-based event designed to raise awareness about memory loss and Alzheimer's disease in the African American community. It is observed nationally on the second Sunday in June. It is an initiative of The National Brain Health Center for African Americans, a program of the Balm and Gilead. As part of Memory Sunday, churches incorporate education about the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease into religious services and related programs. The role of faith communities in addressing Alzheimer’s cannot be overstated.

For people living with Alzheimer’s and for those who care for them, caring congregations are essential to both the physical and spiritual care one might receive. This includes discussion about ways to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, available support for care partners of those living with the disease and raising awareness about the importance of research.

DID YOU KNOW?

• African Americans have higher rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart diseases, which increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
• People with a history of either high blood pressure or high cholesterol are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Those with both risk factors are four times more likely to develop dementia.
• African Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as older White Americans. Variations in health, lifestyle and socioeconomic risk factors account for most of the differences in risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementia by race.
• African Americans may be more likely to be diagnosed in the later stages of the disease due to lack of access to insurance and affordable health care — a barrier that has grown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This delay means these individuals are not getting treatment when they are most likely to improve quality of life, including some symptom relief and help maintaining independence longer.
• Delayed diagnoses mean older African Americans may miss the opportunity to make important legal, financial and care plans while they are still capable, and may be unable to communicate their preferences to their families.
• Currently, African American participation in Alzheimer’s clinical trials is less than 10%. It is critical to represent the broader population, including African Americans, in clinical trials to better understand how racial and ethnic differences may affect efficacy and safety.

WHERE CAN I GET HELP?

Free 24/7 Alzheimer’s & Dementia Helpline | Call 800.272.3900

The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) is a free service offering support for people living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public. Connect with a live person who can provide information, local resources, crisis assistance, and emotional support.

What to expect when you call the Helpline

1. Speak with a Helpline Agent. This is the first person who greets you when you call. The agent can provide you with a variety of resources, from disease-related literature to local support and care options. They can also help you register for free in-person and virtual Caregiver Support Groups and Education Programs.
2. Go more in-depth with a Care Consultant. Sometimes, circumstances require a more in-depth conversation. We offer free care consultations to provide you with individualized, solution-focused support. You will speak with a Care Consultant who is a master's-level dementia expert. Each care consultation begins with clarifying your goal or hope for the conversation. From there, we will work in collaboration with you to develop an action plan to address your individual needs. 
3. We are always here. Please do not hesitate to reach out. We are a team of people who care and want to contribute to a greater sense of strength, hope and understanding in navigating Alzheimer's disease.

Resource: https://youtu.be/i2MtQtQAuQE?si=bQrEV6ai9_6OHZYA

Details

Category: Health Education Resources

Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month is observed every June to raise awareness, promote brain health, and support research and caregiving for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.  

Purpose and Significance

Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, established in 1983 to educate the public about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, encourage early detection, and highlight the importance of caregiving and research support. The month emphasizes that brain health is vital at every age, and adopting healthy habits may reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia 

Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.

Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. The greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and most people with Alzheimer's are 65 and older. Alzheimer's disease is younger-onset Alzheimer's if it affects a person under 65. Younger-onset can also be referred to as early-onset Alzheimer's. People with younger-onset Alzheimer's can be in the early, middle or late stage of the disease.

​
Alzheimer's worsens over time. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, where dementia symptoms gradually worsen over a number of years. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer's, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment. On average, a person with Alzheimer's lives four to eight years after diagnosis but can live as long as 20 years, depending on other factors.

Ways to Promote Brain Health

We are at a turning point in what we know about brain health — and the actions you take today can make a meaningful difference for you. Positive, everyday actions can make a difference in brain health, even lowering the risk of cognitive decline and possibly Alzheimer's and dementia. Incorporate some or all of these habits into your life to help maintain a healthy brain. Take charge of your brain health today — it's never too early or too late to start. Science shows that adopting healthy habits may reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Incorporate some or all these 10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain into your life and share them with someone you know.

Source:  Alzheimer's Association